Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, barriers to treatment, like concerns about cost or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy difficult. If you’re looking for mental health care in the Golden State, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp.

BetterHelp therapists have extensive experience and can help you work to overcome your unique challenges and meet your highest potential. From young adults needing help managing the effects of ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from events of the past, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn how to improve their mental wellness.

If you’re looking for a licensed therapist, CA has many online options available. Contact one of the providers below to schedule your first session and learn more about the benefits of online treatment.

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Dr. Robin Avery

Offering therapy in California
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

A mixture of hope and skepticism often accompanies seeing a new therapist. You wonder if this therapist can help bring an end to your suffering and confusion. You ask yourself if you will get the clarity you are searching for, closure to the grief you are experiencing, or find purpose and meaning in the life you are living. I bring to your sessions a blending of training in evidenced-based psychotherapy with over 30 Years of combined professional and personal experience to help you through your journey of self-discovery and healing. I provide the emotional support needed as you walk through the barriers of fear that prevent you from exploring your inner world and living a more liberated, balanced life. I walk alongside you in a caring, empathic therapist, as you uncover your seeds of suffering. I teach you skills to help you cope with what cannot be changed, and offer new ways to perceive and experience yourself and your reality that can be a wellspring of growth, positivity, and personal life enhancement. Treating the whole person, I place value on the lessons learned from all of life’s experiences. In addition to psychology, my wisdom draws from the gifts of the natural world, the cultural and performing arts, mindfulness, and my belief in empowering people to find their own unique gifts, talents, and wisdom to create more meaningful connections and purposeful living. I specialize in individual psychotherapy working with adults across the adult lifespan. Whether you are struggling with stress-related issues at home, work, or with relationships in general, feelings of loss and grief, caregiver fatigue, or feelings related to change and life-transitions, I utilize evidenced based approaches including CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and insight-oriented psychotherapies to help you increase self awareness, experience your own inner wisdom and clarity, and create a foundation for successful coping and handling life's uncertainties, healing, and greater life satisfaction.

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Krista Arrington

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,LEP
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
30 years of experience

Welcome! I am Krista Arrington, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 30 years of experience as a mental health professional in community-based, out-patient treatment programs and most recently, in public school settings. I work with clients seeking change through collaborative goal setting, problem solving, and progress monitoring in a validating, respectful therapeutic relationship. I am available to work with clients experiencing immediate challenges, as well as those exploring personal growth. I believe in the transformational power of relationship, as a way to deepen the understanding of patterns that you find no longer serve you. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including life transitions, relationship challenges, ineffective behavioral patterns, family conflicts, grief & loss, peri-menopause, menopause, and sleep difficulties. I have special knowledge in the areas of learning disabilities, neuro-diverse learners, and special education, working with clients who want to explore related parenting dynamics. My counseling approach is empathic, thoughtful, straight forward, and authentic. My approach combines mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral, family systems, and positive behavioral support strategies. I tailor techniques to meet clients’ unique needs and treatment goals, as they share their story and we get to know each other. Including bits of humor along the way, my goal is to help clients address immediate concerns, explore unhelpful response patterns, and learn uncomplicated practices that support emotional wellbeing. If this sounds right for you, contact me and let’s move forward together.

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Leslie Patricia Acoca

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
20 years of experience

I am a licensed California Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. I work with clients to create a warm and trusting environment where they can explore and find solutions for stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, as well as intimacy and relationship issues. I have extensive experience working clients and families who have lost loved ones to suicide. Taking the first step to creating a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Geraldo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I help clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I also work with athletes who have experienced trauma and/or high stress. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Ivan Foote

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Okairy Rodriguez

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Carolina Vargas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Rosemary Rice

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

Hello! I have been licensed in the state of California since 2021, but have been working many more years helping my clients to overcome depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addictions, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and to help you find your true path. I look forward to working with you!

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Lynn Novatt

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a professional Life and Leadership Coach, based in Los Angeles. With 17 years of experience as both a therapist and a coach, I offer an unparalleled blend of knowledge, tools and insights. Clients reflect to me my acute listening skills, empathetic approach and calm demeanor. My intention is to serve you in feeling deeply seen, completely safe, and fully supported as you have made the courageous decision to seek therapy. I see our time together as a sacred space for your healing, and the work we do together can be a springboard for your growth. In addition to my Marriage and Family Therapist license, I have a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. I have done my own deep therapeutic work which allows me to meet my clients where they are; no gimmicks, just deep, authentic listening, so that I can reflect back what I see and hear. My style and approach is one of encouragement, compassion, and optimism, as well as honest feedback. I strive to create a safe space where my clients can relax their body and their mind (their thinking,) allowing them to see possibility for themselves. Through this new lens, clients can gain clarity, get creative and take action in their lives. My therapeutic approach involves Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Learned Optimism, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology and Gestalt. If my clients agree to do homework/grow-work, I utilize question prompts, worksheets, audios, videos, articles and books. I acknowledge you for taking the first step in your growth and empowerment by signing up for BetterHelp. And, I also know that this is a process; the work of personal growth and development is not for the faint of heart. And, here you are, so good for you! Keep going!

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Cindi Robinson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience assisting teens and adults with various mental health challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, anger management, & managing life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. My approach is client centered and solution focused. I recognize that taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in your journey.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 32,349,851 people live in CA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in California support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in California?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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